overnight, a senior adviser to the romney campaign, sending a memo to romney surrogates. setting expectations low. saying president obama is a uniquely gifted speaker. and is widely regarded as one of the most talented political communicators in modern history. the governor offering the same assessment to us. do you think the president will be a formidable opponent on the debate stage? >> absolutely. he's a brilliant orator. >> reporter: romney will practice again this weekend. after a series of mock debates with rob portman playing the president. the president will travel to nevada this weekend for three days of prep. senator john kerry will play the role of mitt romney. both sides are trying to avoid those infamous debate moments. >> you're likable enough, hillary. >> thank you so much. >> reporter: and there was that bet. >> 10,000 bucks? $10,000 bet? >> reporter: but so much of it rests with the candidate. the hbo film "game change," strategist nicolle wallace was depicted trying to help sarah palin prepare for interviews and a debate and the national stage. >> it was